PROPERTIES

ENERGETICS

TASTE

Bitter and acrid.

ODOR

Faintly aromatic.

MEDICINAL USE OF HOREHOUND

Horehound is, unfortunately, no longer a commonly used herb. Herbalists use it to soothe respiratory and digestive complaints.

The bitter compounds and the saponins regulate the secretion of the submucosal glands (glands that secrete mucus) in the air passages. They also lose and thin mucus acting as an expectorant, antiphlogistic and antispasmodic. It works wonders for bronchitis, especially in the elderly as well as pertussis and asthma.

The bitter compounds also regulate the digestive system, particularly the gallbladder, lending strength to the body.

Take internally for:

Cough

Pertussis

Bronchitis

Asthma

Fevers (especially those associated with Malaria)

Digestion

Gallbladder support

Stimulating the appetite

Topic application for:

Wounds and other skin conditions

Recommended daily dosage

Tea: 4.5 g herb
Pressed juice: 30 to 60 ml

HOMEMADE PREPARATIONS

Infusion

Decoction

Syrup

Wine

Honey

Poultice

SIDE EFFECTS

None in normal doses. Large doses can be laxative.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

None.

CULINARY USE

Horehound has been used in Europe as a condiment to flavor salads, chicken and fish, soups and stews, sauces, strong-tasting vegetables, candy, cakes and cookies, ice-cream, liqueur and as a substitute for hops in beer (horehound ale).